CSI Rodeo team gears up for home event

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By
Ngozi Ekeledo

Twin Falls, ID ( KMVT - TV / KTWT - TV ) The CSI Rodeo team hosts its only home events this weekend, and the crowd could play a big factor.

While men's team currently sits in first place in the Rocky Mountain Regional standings, the women's teams sit in second place behind Idaho State, and both teams are looking for a huge push in momentum in the standings.

"This weekend's pretty big for us because on Thursday, [it's] our regional rodeo, and that counts for about double [the] points," said CSI men's rodeo team member Zach Hutchinson. "That's kind of a big night for us to step up and shine and take our lead a little further."

"So the one–head rodeo, which this year we only have one of, is very important. If you do well, you could really jump up in the standings."

Both teams have really jumped out to a great start for the spring season. After last week's opening weekend at Weber State, the men hold the top 3 spots in saddle bronc riding, and five of the top seven bareback riders are Golden Eagles.

The women are looking to continue their strong showing in barrel racing this weekend from Darby Fox and Samantha Logan, who are ranked first and third respectively in the region standings.

Now the comfort of a home crowd could add to this advantage.

"I like being at home. All my family gets to come and my friends [too]," said Twin Falls native and women's rodeo team member Kyndal Stradley.

"Our barrel horses here--they know the arena, [and] they know how the ground is so we can use that to our advantage," Stradley said. "We know how our footing is and hold it. The set–up as far as the roping events—we know how the box is set up."

"It's just like home court advantage for a basketball team or home field advantage for a football team. This is where they do it every single day," Birnie said. "They know how things work, they know the ground [and] they know everything."

The action kicks off Thursday night at 7 pm, and tickets are still available for the event. It's $8 for adults, $5 dollars for children or $20 for a family pass. If you can't get tickets beforehand, they will be available at the door for $10.